🇯🇴 Jordan

Is Petra Safe?

7.8
Tripvey Safety Score
estimated from public data
✅
Safe to Visit
Tripvey's estimate from travel advisories and public data — not official safety advice. How we score
7.8
Safety
Crime & scam risk
7.0
Value
Budget friendliness
9.8
Beauty
Scenery & culture

What Travelers Say About Petra

Petra was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom (4th century BC – 1st century AD) and is one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites on Earth. The 1.2km Siq gorge (a natural crack in the sandstone mountains) opens dramatically onto the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) — a 40-metre rose-red façade carved directly into the cliff. Beyond: a complete ancient city of 800+ structures, including tombs, temples, a Roman street, a Byzantine church, and the vast Monastery requiring 800 steps to reach.

Common Scams in Petra

Horse & Donkey Ride Aggressive Toutinghigh
From the Petra entrance to the Treasury, horse rides are included in the ticket price — but handlers aggressively solicit tips of JOD 5–20 and some demand payment for rides that should be free. The JSPCA and Jordan Tourism Board have both received complaints. Agree on any tip in advance or clearly state you will walk. The Siq walk on foot takes 20 minutes and is more atmospheric.
Fake Jordan Pass Websiteshigh
Multiple fake websites mimic the official Jordan Pass website (jordanpass.jo) and sell fraudulent passes for USD 40–90 that are not valid at entry. The official Jordan Pass is only available at jordanpass.jo. Check the URL carefully and ensure payment goes to the official site. Print or download the QR code before arrival at Aqaba or Amman airport.
Bedouin Souvenir Hard Sellmedium
Inside the Petra site, particularly on the path to the Monastery, vendors set up stalls and follow tourists insistently. Children may offer 'free gifts' then demand payment. Prices quoted are typically 5–10x what a local would pay. Firm, polite refusal and continuing to walk is the only effective response — engaging with the sales pitch extends the encounter indefinitely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Petra safe for tourists?

Petra scores 7.8/10 for safety on Tripvey, based on travel advisories and public data. Petty theft is the most commonly reported issue. Keep your phone in your front pocket and you'll likely have no problems.

Is Petra safe at night?

Petra is generally safe at night in tourist and central areas. Grab or local ride-apps are the safest option after midnight — avoid unlicensed taxis.

Is Petra safe for solo female travelers?

Petra (7.8/10) is one of the better options for solo female travelers in its region. Stay in well-reviewed hostels or hotels, use apps for transport, and the locals are generally helpful.

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